Oklahoma LPN Programs

Browse our list of state approved LPN certification programs

Are you looking for that career where you can make a difference? Consider becoming a License Practical Nurse (LPN) which is also known as a Vocational Nurse. The basic difference between an LPN and a Registered Nurse is that an LPN gathers the information on a patient and the RN assesses the information and formulates a care plan. The LPN is then in charge of the implementation of the treatment itself. The start-up period takes about one year to complete the courses necessary to obtain your LPN certificate.

The classes that need to be completed as part of an accredited LPN program include Anatomy and Physiology, Pediatrics, Obstetrics, Nutrition, Psychiatric nursing, Physiology, Medical/Surgical nursing, Pharmacology and First Aid. During the program many hours may be spent in a hospital or doctor’s office environment learning hands-on how to perform the skills required of an LPN.

The kind of care an LPN student learns to provide is basic bedside care, lifting, bathing, administering injections, caring for wounds, delivering simple procedures and measuring vital signs, temperature, respiration and blood pressure. State laws refer to this as direct patient care or data collection. The LPN collects patient information and observes the state of a patient’s condition. The Doctor and RN can then respond to the collected data with an assessment, diagnosis and treatment options. The supervising nurse or doctor relies upon the information collected by the LPN to make an informed decision on how to provide the best care for the patient.

LPNs may specialize in different fields ranging from psychiatry, obstetrics, pediatrics or surgery. Once you are working in that field it is easier to determine which specialty, if any, you want to pursue. A Licensed Practical Nurse may choose to work in a hospital, assisted care facility, doctor’s office, school or nursing home. Many health care organizations may provide outside care for health screenings, vaccinations, and other routine patient care. This helps to organize and provide their services in broader areas.

Admissions requirements for LPN programs in Oklahoma vary by school, but may include having a high school diploma or equivalent degree, pre-requisite courses and/or passing an entrance exam. Students should choose a program that is conveniently located, fits with their schedule and has a reputation for providing excellent training for future LPNs.

List of LPN Programs in Oklahoma (OK)

Oklahoma LPN Schools

Our directory lists all Oklahoma schools that currently offer approved practical nursing programs. The Oklahoma state board of nursing is the regulatory organization in charge of approving LPN education programs. To gain approval, educational institutions must demonstrate to the board of nursing that their program sufficiently prepares students with the knowledge and skills expected of a licensed practical nurse. The on-going approval of a program depends largely upon their graduation rates and the NCLEX pass rates of their graduates. If a program starts to produce poor results in either of these two categories they can quickly lose their state approval or be placed on probationary approval status until their results improve.

Required LPN Classes in Oklahoma

The specific course work required in practical nursing programs can differ from institution to institution. However, there are some subjects that are almost always included in most programs. Typical LPN classes include Anatomy & Physiology, Basic Nursing Skills, Nutrition, Math for Nurses, Psychology and Pharmacology. Topics covered within these subjects prepare students with the knowledge base required to perform the work of a licensed practical nurse.

How to Become an LPN in Oklahoma

Start the process by researching available education programs to find one that suits your schedule and preferences. The next step is to enroll and complete an LPN training program that is approved by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing. Most LPN programs take roughly one year to finish. Upon successful completion of all course requirements you are eligible to challenge the NCLEX-PN exam. After passing the test you can register with the state of Oklahoma as a licensed practical nurse and begin searching for employment.